OnStar

GM has finally pushed out an update for its RemoteLink OnStar app for Windows Phone. The last time we wrote about this app was when it was released way back in August 2013. Yesterday (we're a little behind), version 2.0 landed on the Store and with it a new UI, some bug fixes, and a few new additions.

For those who do not drive a Cadillac, Chevrolet, Buick, or GMC, OnStar (OnStar.com) is a smart system for vehicles that does everything from safety (Advisor, roadside assistance) to remote starting, trip planning and even managing your OnStar Wi-Fi, hotspot. The key to the system though is the smartphone app that lets you control all of this remotely.

We first reported about an OnStar app for Windows Phone in development back in early April. It took four and a half months, but last week the official OnStar RemoteLink app for Windows Phone hit the Store. The comment section in that article showed a lot of you with Camaros, Silverados, and other cars from General Motors as happy campers. But does it work for all OnStar equipped vehicles?

Another week, another official app. We’ve literally seen a big app or two hit the Windows Phone Store every week for the past 7 months. Drive a 2010 or newer Cadillac, Chevrolet, Buick, or GMC? You might want to pick up an OnStar subscription for your whip now that there’s an official app for Windows Phone.

If you’re rolling around town in an OnStar equipped vehicle (think vehicles made by GM – like the Chevy Volt) you’ll be happy to know an official app is in development. There was a popular third party called Volt Link that was pulled from the Store because of a cease-and-desist from General Motors. Now it looks like we’ll get an official offering!

We don't enjoy relaying news such as this, but it appears as though Volt Link, an app enabling Windows Phone owners who are OnStar subscribers (www.onstar.com) to access actions and functionality using the handset, will no longer be supported or available on Windows Phone.

The developer has revealed to a Windows Phone Central reader that a cease and desist letter was sent by GM/OnStar, requesting the immediate withdrawal of the app from the Store.

Volt Link is a Windows Phone app that might appeal to the OnStar subscribers in the audience. While not officially affiliated with OnStar, Volt Link supports reporting of vehicle status, remote vehicle starting, and unlocking doors.

Volt Link also enables Bing search results to be sent directly to your car. For those driving Chevy Volts, Volt Link has the ability to find EV charging stations and sending their addresses to supported vehicles.